Best Condo Floors in 2023: Discover the Best Floor for Your Dream Home!

Are you on the lookout for your dream condo in the dazzling city of Singapore? Amidst the excitement of exploring upscale neighborhoods, stunning waterfronts, and irresistible amenities, there’s an essential question we often overlook: Which floor is the best in a condominium? 

Surprisingly, this simple query has sparked numerous debates and divided opinions among condo buyers and residents alike. Choosing the right floor goes beyond just the spectacular views or ease of access; it encompasses preferences, lifestyle, and even financial considerations that can significantly impact your condo living experience. 

In this blog post, we dive into the great floor debate, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of various floors, and revealing some exclusive insights to help you make an informed decision for your ultimate Singaporean abode. So, fasten your seatbelt and get ready to explore the highs and lows of condo living!

Importance of floor selection when buying a condo in Singapore

How to Decide between High Floor and Low Floor Units
– Choose based on the needs of you and your family
– Lower-floor units are recommended for those who don’t mind the area’s activity, prioritize convenience, and have young children or elderly members
– Higher-floor units are suitable for those who value privacy, prefer panoramic views, seek better ventilation, and anticipate higher resale value

Selecting the right floor when purchasing a condominium in Singapore is a critical decision that can affect the quality of life, comfort, and potential resale value of your property. A good floor selection considers factors such as views, noise levels, privacy, and natural lighting, ensuring an optimal living environment suitable for both homeowners and potential tenants.

For homeowners, choosing the right floor can have a significant impact on their satisfaction and overall living experience in the condominium. Higher floors typically offer better views, more natural light, and reduced noise from communal spaces and streets. On the other hand, lower floors are generally more accessible and may offer greater convenience for families with young children or elderly individuals.

For investors looking to rent or resell their condominium, the choice of floor level can influence the property’s appeal to potential tenants or buyers. Properties with unobstructed views, good natural lighting, and on higher floors may fetch higher rental or sale prices. However, such premium units may also cost more initially, potentially affecting rental yields and overall return on investment.

In summary, the importance of floor selection in Singapore’s condominium market cannot be overstated. Each buyer has different preferences and requirements based on their lifestyle, budget, and investment goals. By carefully considering these factors, selecting the ideal floor level in a condominium can significantly enhance the quality of life and maximize the property’s long-term potential. 

How to pick the best condo unit based on the floor position

Higher Floors	Lower Floors
1. Better Wind Ventilation: Units are windier and cooler, resulting in lower energy bills.	1. More Convenient: Less waiting time for lifts and easier access in emergencies.
2. Less Prone to Pests: Lower chances of pests entering the home.	2. Not as Dusty: Less exposure to wind-borne dust.
3. More Privacy and Lower Noise Levels: Reduced noise from neighbors and surrounding areas.	3. Cheaper: Lower cost compared to higher floors.
4. Better Views: Enhanced views of the surroundings, such as the city, sea, or sunset.	4. Better Garden/Pool Views: Up-close views of pools or greenery.
5. Better Resale Value: Higher floor units tend to command higher premiums and can be sold at a higher price.	5. Easier if You’re a Pet Owner: Less awkwardness with pets in elevators.
6. Less Prone to High-Rise Litter: Lower risk of falling objects from upper floors.	6. More Floor Space: Ground floor units may offer larger floor areas or private outdoor spaces.
7. Not Vulnerable to Floods: Lower risk of flooding in low-lying areas.
8. Better Security: Reduced likelihood of burglaries due to increased effort required to access higher floors.

Selecting the best condominium unit in a building can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to choosing the right floor position. Factors such as personal preferences, lifestyle needs, and investment objectives must be taken into consideration. Here are some helpful tips on how to pick the best condo unit based on floor position.

1. High-floor versus low-floor units: High-floor units tend to offer better views, natural light, and potentially cooler conditions due to higher elevation. However, they may also be more expensive than their low-floor counterparts. On the other hand, low-floor units may be less expensive, but may experience more noise due to their proximity to common areas or traffic. If you’re purchasing a unit for personal use, prioritize your comfort and preferences. For investors, consider the rental yield and potential resale value.

2. Consider the building’s amenities: Depending on the building layout, some floors may have direct access to amenities such as the swimming pool, gym, or function rooms. If these amenities are important to you, choose a unit on a floor that offers convenient access.

3. Geographical factors: The surrounding neighborhood and its demographics can also influence your decision on floor positioning. For instance, if you’re investing in a unit near international schools, larger units on higher floors may be more appealing to expatriate families. Conversely, smaller units on lower floors may be more attractive to singles or young couples residing near business hubs or entertainment districts.

4. Noise and privacy levels: Lower floors are generally more prone to noise and foot traffic, whereas higher floor units offer greater privacy and peace. Evaluate your personal preferences and lifestyle needs to find the ideal balance between noise level and privacy.

Facing direction and its impact on selecting the best condo unit

When selecting the best condo unit in Singapore, one important aspect to consider is the facing direction of the property. The direction in which a unit faces can significantly impact not only the amount of sunlight that enters the home but also the temperature and overall comfort of the living space. In this article, we will discuss the importance of facing direction and its impact on choosing the best condo unit in Singapore.

North-south-facing units are often regarded as the most desirable, as they provide an optimal balance of sunlight and temperature control throughout the day. Since the sun’s path moves from east to west, a north-south facing unit will not receive direct sunlight, leading to a cooler and more comfortable living environment.

South-east facing units are another popular option, as they receive ample sunlight in the morning and less in the afternoon. This ensures that the property does not heat up too much during the day, although some individuals may not appreciate being woken up by the bright morning sunlight.

On the contrary, east-west facing units are less popular due to their exposure to direct sunlight throughout the day. These properties can become very hot, especially during the afternoon hours, and may require additional measures, such as window films or blinds, to keep the temperature at a comfortable level.

The benefits of a condo unit on the ground floor

Living in a ground-floor condo unit in Singapore can provide residents with several advantages. One of the primary benefits is the convenience of not needing to use a lift, making it easier and quicker to access the unit. This is particularly helpful during public holidays or large gatherings when there may be long waiting times for lifts. Moreover, ground-floor residents are not affected by lift breakdowns or maintenance, which may occur more frequently in older buildings.

Another advantage of living on the ground floor is the potential for extra space. Some condos feature a Private Enclosed Space (PES) around ground floor units, providing additional room compared to those on higher floors. This extra space can be used for potted plants or other decorative ornaments, with ground floor inhabitants benefiting from the flexibility of more liberal condo rules in this regard.

Cleaning exterior surfaces, such as windows and air-con compressors, is easier and safer on the ground floor. Residents who prioritize cleanliness can maintain their property securely without the need for any precarious attempts to reach higher levels.

Lastly, ground floor units offer a safer environment for families with toddlers and young children. With less chance of accidents occurring due to a lack of safety grilles, parents can enjoy peace of mind knowing their little ones are safe from any potential dangers related to high-rise living. Overall, choosing a ground floor condo unit in Singapore can provide a range of benefits worth considering for prospective buyers. 

The drawbacks of a condo unit on the ground floor

Living in a ground floor condo unit might seem like an attractive option, offering convenience and potentially more outdoor space. However, there are several drawbacks that one should consider before making a decision to purchase such a unit.

First, ground floor units are more susceptible to vermin attacks. Being closer to garbage collection areas, litters, and potholes, they are more likely to attract cockroaches, ants, mosquitos, rats, and lizards. This means residents will need to work closely with the condo management team to implement and maintain effective pest control measures.

Second, noise can be a major issue when living on the ground floor. Residents will have to deal with noise from passersby walking towards the lifts, playgrounds, and swimming pools nearby. This can be especially bothersome for those who value peace and quiet. On higher floors, external noises are typically less intrusive, allowing for a quieter living experience.

Lastly, ground floor units often receive less sunlight due to being blocked by higher floors. This can make drying laundry more challenging, especially in humid climates. While some new developments have addressed this issue, it remains a common problem for ground floor units. In summary, despite its advantages, there are significant drawbacks to consider when choosing a ground floor condo unit. 

Why middle floors are less desirable in condos

Considerations for Middle Floor Units
– Affordable compromise between low and high floors
– Decent air ventilation and views
– Moderate noise levels
– Possibility of pests and wildlife depending on the area

When it comes to choosing a suitable floor in a condominium, many may argue that the middle floors are less desirable compared to the upper and lower floors. Although they may not be the most preferred choice for some, it is essential to understand the various factors and perspectives that contribute to this notion.

One of the main reasons why middle floors are viewed as less desirable is the lack of unique advantages they possess. For instance, the upper floors tend to offer more unobstructed views and are quieter, as they are far from the street noise. On the other hand, the lower floors provide residents with easy access to ground-level amenities and the potential to avoid waiting times for elevators. In contrast, middle floors do not have these significant benefits, making them less attractive to potential buyers.

Moreover, the middle floors often come with a mix of advantages and disadvantages of both upper and lower floors. This means that while residents can still enjoy some benefits such as reduced traffic noise and reasonable accessibility, they must also deal with certain drawbacks like limited views and potential noise from nearby neighbors. As a result, this balance of pros and cons may lead some people to consider middle floors as a ‘middle ground’ option, ultimately making them less desirable.

In conclusion, the less desirable nature of middle floors in condos can be attributed to factors such as the absence of unique advantages and the mix of pros and cons that they entail. Nevertheless, it is important to remember that individual preferences and priorities may differ; hence, the best floor for a new condo highly depends on the specific needs and requirements of the prospective buyer. 

Premium facings and their impact on selecting a condo unit

When it comes to selecting a condo unit, one of the most significant factors to consider is the premium facing. Premium facings typically refer to the views and the direction that the unit faces. In Singapore, a well-regarded facing ensures better views, enhanced ventilation, and desirable sunlight exposure. For many homebuyers, these factors play a significant role in determining the price they are willing to pay for a condo unit.

The most desirable facing in Singapore is the north-south direction. It’s considered optimal because the sun’s path is from east to west, meaning the unit will not be exposed to direct sunlight throughout the day. Such units tend to be cooler and dimmer in comparison to other facings. Southeast-facing units are also popular, with strong sunlight exposure in the morning and weaker sunlight later in the day. This prevents the unit from heating up too much.

On the other hand, east-west facing units are generally less preferred, as they are exposed to direct sunlight throughout the day, leading to higher temperatures inside the unit. To counteract the heat issues, some buyers opt for east-west units at lower prices and undertake renovations to minimize the exposure to direct sunlight.

Besides the facing direction, other factors that contribute to a premium include unblocked views, enhanced privacy, and quiet surroundings. Ultimately, finding the right condo unit involves weighing the importance of a premium facing against the additional costs it may entail, and how it will impact your overall lifestyle and comfort in your new home. 

Growth plans of the area and its impact on selecting the condo floor

When choosing a condo unit, it is crucial to consider not only the floor and facing, but also the growth plans of the area surrounding the condominium. The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) regularly updates the Master Plan for each region in Singapore, outlining the development plans for the next 10 to 15 years. By analyzing the growth plans of the area, potential condo buyers can make informed decisions when selecting their desired floor level.

Future developments, such as new MRT stations, commercial buildings, or residential projects, can impact the value and appeal of your condo. For instance, a higher floor unit may initially offer an unobstructed view; however, if there are plans for a new high-rise building nearby, your view could become obstructed in the future, which may negatively affect your property’s value or your overall living experience.

Moreover, the growth plans of the area may provide insights into the potential for noise, traffic, and other issues that could affect your living experience. Higher floor units typically offer more distance from street-level noises, giving residents a quieter and more peaceful environment. Conversely, lower floor units may be closer to amenities such as the swimming pool, gym, and function rooms, offering increased convenience for residents.

In conclusion, it is essential to thoroughly research and understand the growth plans of the area surrounding your desired condo development. This information, when combined with your preferences for floor level, unit facing, and other factors, can help guide you towards making the best decision for your future home. 

Safety concerns for families with young children when selecting a condo unit

When selecting a condo unit, especially for families with young children, safety concerns are paramount. One of the main factors to consider is the floor level of the unit, as some families may prefer the convenience and safety that ground floor units provide. For instance, they eliminate the risk of accidents caused by children playing near windows or balconies on higher floors. Additionally, if the condominium does not allow safety grilles, a ground floor unit may be the better choice for households with curious and active toddlers.

Conversely, ground floor units may also pose certain safety concerns that are less prevalent on higher floors. These include potentially easier access for intruders, a higher likelihood of vermin infestations due to proximity to garbage disposal areas, and increased noise from passersby, vehicles, or play areas which could be a nuisance and disruptive to young children’s routines.

When considering safety for families with young children, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of each floor level to determine the most suitable option. A thorough assessment of the safety measures in place in the building, such as security patrols, emergency exits, and the availability of safety grilles on windows and balconies is also vital to minimize risk and ensure a secure and comfortable living environment for the entire family. 

Cleaning exterior surfaces and its connection with selecting the best condo unit floor

When selecting the best floor for your condo unit in Singapore, an important factor to consider is the ease of cleaning exterior surfaces. This aspect may not seem significant at first glance, however, it plays a crucial role in maintaining the overall cleanliness and appearance of your home. Let’s explore the connection between cleaning exterior surfaces and choosing the best condo unit floor.

For individuals who prioritize cleanliness and want safe access to maintain their windows, air-conditioning compressors, and other exterior surfaces, ground floor units are ideal. Living on the ground floor enables residents to easily and safely clean these surfaces without the risk of falling from a great height. This not only ensures that their home remains spotless but also eliminates any potential hazards that may arise while cleaning high-rise units.

On the other hand, occupants of upper-floor units may face challenges when it comes to cleaning exterior surfaces. Reaching exterior surfaces of higher floors can be dangerous and might require professional assistance from cleaning services. This inconvenience can add extra hassle and expenses to their household maintenance.

In conclusion, when selecting the best floor for your condo unit in Singapore, it is crucial to take into account your priorities and preferences concerning the upkeep of your home. For those who value easy access to exterior surfaces for cleaning purposes, ground floor units emerge as the more suitable option. It is essential to weigh the pros and cons of each floor, to ensure it aligns with your living requirements and preferences. 

FAQ: 

Q: Which floor is the best if I want to avoid street noise in a Singapore condo?

A: Opting for a unit on one of the middle floors might be the best choice, as it provides a comfortable distance from the street hustle and bustle while still providing easy access to the building’s amenities.

Q: Are there particular benefits to staying on the ground floor of a condo?

A: Ground floor units offer several advantages, including avoiding lift waiting times and easier access to the exterior for cleaning or placing decorations. These units are also safer for families with young children who might be at risk of falling from higher levels.

Q: Does living on the top floor provide any specific advantages?

A: A top-floor unit typically offers better views, more privacy, and less noise from neighbors above. However, units on higher floors may experience more wind and the need to use lifts more frequently.

Q: Do size and layout differ among condo units on different floors?

A: It is common for ground floor units to be slightly larger because of the additional private enclosed space often provided. Studio condos and three to four-bedroom units will have different layouts, based on the specific needs of the occupants.

Q: How can I determine which condo floor is best for me?

A: To find the perfect fit, consider factors such as available amenities, privacy needs, the potential for pests, natural light availability, and whether you prefer more or less reliance on lifts. Take the time to analyze these aspects as they relate to the different floors available in the condominium building.